University of Southern California vs University of Notre Dame: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Notre Dame has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $107,120 in 2.1 years versus 3 years at University of Southern California, on median earnings of $99,980 vs $92,498 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Southern California | University of Notre Dame |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $32,740 | $26,780 |
| Total net cost | $130,960 | $107,120 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $92,498 | $99,980 |
| Median debt | $18,000 | $19,000 |
| Payback | 3 yrs | 2.1 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $751,800 | $925,280 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Southern California vs University of Notre Dame: frequently asked questions
Is University of Southern California or University of Notre Dame a better value?
University of Notre Dame. It clears its $107,120 net cost in about 2.1 years versus 3 years at University of Southern California, on median earnings of $99,980 vs $92,498 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Southern California or University of Notre Dame?
University of Notre Dame: $26,780/yr net price after aid versus $32,740/yr at University of Southern California — a difference of $5,960 a year, or about $23,840 over four years.
Do University of Southern California or University of Notre Dame graduates earn more?
University of Notre Dame graduates earn a median $99,980 ten years after entry, versus $92,498 at University of Southern California — a $7,482 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.